The New York Yankees dominated the Miami Marlins 8-2 in Friday’s home opener at Yankee Stadium. Aaron Judge crushed a two-run homer the first time he stepped to the plate in front of the home crowd this season. Ben Rice added a solo shot of his own. The pitching staff continued its dominant start, allowing just two runs across nearly nine innings of work.
The Yankees moved to 6-1, one of the strongest openings to a season in the history of the franchise.
Before the first pitch, Judge had already set the tone. The night before, he texted the team group chat with a simple directive. Suits tomorrow. Everyone showed up dressed for the occasion.
But the most meaningful moment came during the first inning roll call, when Judge delivered a gesture that had nothing to do with baseball.
Judge Honors Brett Gardner During Roll Call
The Bleacher Creatures started their traditional Roll Call in the first inning. When they reached Judge, the captain planted a knee on the grass and threw a double bicep pose toward the bleachers. It is a tribute he has carried on for years in honor of Brett Gardner.
Gardner wore pinstripes for 14 seasons. He was one of the most respected voices in the clubhouse during his time in the Bronx. Gardner’s connection to the franchise took on even greater significance after he experienced a tragic personal loss in 2024 with the death of his son.
Judge was asked about the tribute to Gardner after the game and took his time with the answer.
“He took me in at a young age when I first got here,” Judge said. “He teaches you how to lead a clubhouse. Very few guys are made like Brett Gardner.”
Judge entered the Yankees organization as a rookie in 2016. Gardner took Judge under his wing as Judge emerged as one of the most exciting young players in baseball. Gardner showed him how to carry himself as a professional. The preparation, the intensity, the way he held everyone around him accountable.
Judge said he wants Gardner to have the opportunity to return to the organization and pass along what he learned over nearly a decade and a half in the Bronx. He noted that Gardner remains connected to the team and follows every game.
Judge’s Bat Comes Alive in the Bronx
The tribute set the emotional tone. Judge’s bat set the competitive one.
In his first at bat, Judge connected on a slider that hung over the plate. The ball rocketed into the stands for a two-run shot that gave the Yankees the lead.
He finished the afternoon 2-for-3 with three RBIs. He drew a walk and singled later in the game. Home runs now account for three of his five hits on the young season.
Rice provided the knockout blows later in the game, one of them being a homer of his own. He had also had 3 RBIs in the game.
GettyNEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 03: Aaron Judge #99 of the New York Yankees hits a single in the eighth inning during the home opener at Yankee Stadium on April 03, 2026 in the Bronx borough of New York City. The New York Yankees defeated the Miami Marlins 8-2. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Yankees Continue Historic Start
The 6-1 record is among the finest opening stretches in franchise history. The pitching staff has been the driving force, conceding just eight runs through seven games. Will Warren gave the Yankees a solid start on Friday, and the relief corps was flawless the rest of the way.
The crowd was fired up. Cody Bellinger made an extraordinary over-the-shoulder catch in the ninth that had the stadium roaring.
The series continues Saturday night.
Final Word for the Yankees
Judge texted his teammates about suits. He honored Brett Gardner during Roll Call. He launched a two-run homer in his first at-bat at home. The home opener belonged to the captain in every sense.
But the Gardner moment lingered longest. Judge spoke about a man who shaped how he leads, how he prepares, and how he holds himself to a standard. That influence shows up every day in how Judge carries this team.
Gardner spent years building a legacy in the Bronx. Judge is making sure nobody forgets it.
The flex continues.
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